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The Parks and Recreation Department has significantly reduced its cost estimate for the proposed pocket park at Spicewood Springs Road and Old Lampasas Trail, bringing it down from an initial $2.8 million to approximately $982,800. The revision follows a detailed evaluation of the site’s acreage, proximity to major roadways and the Bull Creek Greenbelt, neighborhood access and the appropriate scale of planned amenities. The proposed park, outlined in City Council Resolution No. 20240829-140, would include a pavilion, playground, community garden, fenced dog park, basketball and pickleball courts, plus an extensive trail network. Infrastructure improvements such as parking, bike racks and lighting are also planned. The cost decrease reflects a reassessment of the scale of amenities, with adjustments made to ensure feasibility within the available space and budget constraints. The new estimate does not include ongoing maintenance costs, which would need to be considered separately. If the project moves forward, PARD will engage the community to finalize the design and development plan.

Chad Swiatecki is a 20-year journalist who relocated to Austin from his home state of Michigan in 2008. He most enjoys covering the intersection of arts, business and local/state politics. He has written...